The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 is one of the most iconic American muscle cars of the 1960s, known for its striking design, powerful engine, and powerful presence both on and off the track. The 1968 model marked a pivotal year for the Dodge Charger, as it underwent a major redesign that made it even more aggressive, with bold styling that would leave a lasting impression on the automotive world.
Key Features and Characteristics of the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440:
Engine and Performance:
- The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 was equipped with the powerful 440 cubic inch (7.2L) V8 engine. This engine was capable of producing 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent acceleration and top-end speed for muscle car enthusiasts.
- The 440 V8 was known for its thunderous exhaust note, a key feature that made the Charger R/T a favorite among muscle car fans. This engine option was part of Dodge’s “Road/Track” (R/T) performance package, which offered significantly more power than the standard engine options available on the Charger.
- The R/T 440 was paired with either a 4-speed manual or an optional 3-speed automatic transmission. The 4-speed manual transmission, often mated to the Hurst shifter, provided a more engaging driving experience, while the automatic transmission offered easier street usability.
- The Charger R/T was built for performance, with a top speed of about 140 mph (225 km/h) and the ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just under 6 seconds, which was quite impressive for a car of its size and weight.
Design and Styling:
- The 1968 Charger was completely redesigned, with a more aggressive and sleek look. The car’s muscular stance was enhanced by its long, flowing body, fastback roofline, and distinctive rear window that curved into the rear end of the car, giving it a unique silhouette. This design was often referred to as the “Coke bottle” shape, with the rear fenders flaring out slightly to give it a wider, more aggressive appearance.
- The 1968 Charger also introduced a more dramatic front-end look, with a split grille design. This new grille design was wider and more prominent, flanked by aggressive-looking headlights. The grille was designed to be functional as well as stylish, with the outer sections helping to funnel air for the engine.
- The hidden headlights were another unique feature of the 1968 Charger, providing a clean, uninterrupted front end that gave the car a more modern and streamlined look. When the headlights were activated, they would pop up to reveal round, high-beam headlights.
- The muscular bodylines, especially the long hood and fastback rear end, gave the Charger a purposeful look that made it stand out on the road. The blacked-out rear taillight panel was another striking visual feature, giving the rear of the car a menacing appearance.
- The Charger R/T 440 came with aggressive performance trim such as black accent stripes, R/T badges, and sporty dual exhaust outlets.
Interior and Features:
- The interior of the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 was designed to provide a combination of comfort and performance. It featured bucket seats in the front, which provided more support during spirited driving, and a center console that housed the gear shifter, giving the interior a more driver-focused layout.
- The dashboard was simple and functional, with a large speedometer and tachometer to keep track of the car’s performance metrics. The R/T 440 model also included performance-oriented gauges, such as a fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge, and temperature gauge to keep the driver informed of the car’s vital stats during high-performance driving.
- High-quality materials were used in the cabin, with vinyl upholstery for the seats and a choice of colors and trim to match the car’s aggressive styling. Optional features included air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and a tilt steering wheel.
Handling and Suspension:
- The 1968 Charger R/T 440 featured a heavy-duty suspension system, which included coil springs in the front and leaf springs in the rear. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance of comfort for daily driving while also being capable of handling the high-performance demands of a muscle car.
- The R/T 440 also came equipped with power steering and power brakes, making it more manageable on the street compared to some other muscle cars of the era. The front disc brakes provided reliable stopping power, especially important for a car of this size and power.
- The wide rear tires contributed to improved traction, especially during acceleration, while the front suspension helped provide stability when cornering at high speeds.
Performance Features:
- The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 was built for straight-line speed and highway performance, and it offered outstanding acceleration and a deep, rumbling exhaust note thanks to its large displacement V8 engine.
- The performance handling package of the R/T model also included upgrades to the suspension and the addition of dual exhaust pipes for better airflow and performance gains. The car’s size and weight meant that handling was not as sharp as some smaller sports cars, but the Charger excelled in delivering a thrilling, fast ride on the open road.
- The R/T 440 package included upgraded shocks, stiffer springs, and performance tires that ensured the car was well-equipped to handle the power of the V8 engine.
Legacy and Impact:
- The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 became a symbol of muscle car performance and style. It was the car that cemented the Charger’s place in muscle car history, and the R/T model became the pinnacle of Charger performance for many years.
- The Charger R/T’s stunning performance and aggressive design made it an instant favorite, not only among car enthusiasts but also within pop culture, particularly when it was featured in the popular TV show “The Dukes of Hazzard” in the 1970s and 1980s.
- The 1968 Charger also set the tone for the muscle car wars of the late 1960s, as automakers competed to produce the most powerful and stylish cars. The 440 V8 engine was one of the most powerful options available in the Charger lineup, making it a direct competitor to other muscle cars like the Chevrolet Camaro SS, Ford Mustang GT, and Pontiac GTO.
Collectibility:
- Today, the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 is highly regarded by classic car collectors, particularly those who appreciate American muscle cars. Its combination of aggressive styling, a powerful engine, and its iconic place in automotive history has made it a sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts.
- Restored and well-maintained 1968 Chargers often fetch significant prices at classic car auctions, especially models that are in original condition or have unique historical significance, such as one with a famous past or limited production options.
- The 1968 Charger R/T 440 remains one of the quintessential muscle cars of the 1960s, and its legacy lives on in the modern Dodge Charger, which pays homage to its classic predecessors while offering modern performance and technology.
Conclusion:
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 is an exceptional piece of American automotive history. With its aggressive styling, powerful 440 V8 engine, and performance-oriented features, it remains one of the most cherished muscle cars from the 1960s. Whether you’re a collector, enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates automotive history, the 1968 Charger R/T 440 is a symbol of raw American power and muscle car culture that continues to inspire new generations of car lovers.
